Biggest archaeology digs to get underway

Last month attention turned to exploring what historical artifacts might be found at Metro Tunnel works sites.

State Library Station

Following the completion of building demolition on the corner of Swanston and LaTrobe streets, preparations for the state’s biggest archaeological investigations have started.
The preparatory work includes initial archaeological assessments of the ground conditions to determine the digging methodology and predict what may be found below ground level.
Works will get underway at three sites on the corner of Swanston and LaTrobe streets in coming months. Digs at three further sites in Little LaTrobe St are expected to start later this year, following building demolition.
Information about the progress of the investigations will be provided to the community including on the Metro Tunnel’s social media channels in coming months.
At Franklin St, excavation of an 11-storey access shaft is continuing and work has also started to construct a temporary deck that will be used by trucks to enter and exit the shed.
Around-the-clock shaft excavation is also underway at A’Beckett St.
Service relocations are continuing at Franklin St, between Swanston and Stewart streets. Ongoing traffic changes during the combination of day and night works are expected to remain in place until the end of April.
Site investigations to install groundwater monitoring stations continue along both sides of Victoria St, between Swanston and Elizabeth streets and in Bouverie St. This involves day and night works and there is traffic management in place to direct vehicles and pedestrians safely around the sites.

Town Hall Station

Work to demolish the buildings on the site of the new Town Hall Station, between Young & Jackson and the Nicholas Building, is almost complete.
Demolition of the former McDonald’s building is nearing completion and will soon begin on the former KFC building.
Archaeological investigations will also get underway at this site in coming weeks.
Demolition of Port Phillip Arcade is progressing and is expected to be completed by the end of the month.
The King Neptune sculpture on the Flinders St side of the arcade has been removed and placed in storage to be reinstated as part of the new Town Hall Station precinct.
Access to Flinders Lane and Scott Alley businesses remain available throughout these works via either Degraves St or Swanston St.
Site preparation works are underway at the City Square site ahead of the expected commencement of piling mid-year.

Support

We appreciate your support while we undertake these vital works in the city and urge caution around our sites.
Please help us support local businesses affected by Metro Tunnel construction by continuing to visit them while works take place.
Visit metrotunnel.vic.gov.au for more information about works in your area.